Bottom Line: Is a Rail Pass worth it?
Skeptical that you'll be able to save on your transportation with a rail pass over point to point tickets? Here's a comparison of prices. Let's use a pass we haven't discussed, the Scanrail pass, a Scandinavian rail pass covering four Scandinavian countries. The cheapest Scanrail pass will cost you $291.00 for 5 days of first class travel in two months.
The second class fare I found for an Oslo to Bergen trip will run you between $119 and $140, depending on time and date. The fare between Malmo and Stockholm is listed at $141. These prices may vary with seasons, exchange rate and special offers. Still, you can almost make up the price of your pass in two of your five days, giving you almost three days of free travel. Not a bad return. And youth passes and senior passes are available, allowing that group to save even more.
Scanrail Pass (purchase direct or get more information)
Rail Pass Benefits
While rail passes aren't as comprehensive as they once were, you'll still derive benefits from having one. Yes, you'll still have to head to the ticket counter to pay supplements for the high-speed trains you might want to take, or for seat reservations, but getting on a regular train without going through the hassle of standing in line to buy tickets is a plus. And many passes are useful for other means of transportation as well as trains, so check carefully when you order.
You'll get a decent Europe rail map with your rail pass purchase. However, I recommend the more comprehensive map Europe: Major Rail Routes by Michael E. Brown 
. If you need a guide to traveling Europe by rail, I hope you'll check out our Top European Rail Guides
Rail travel is a blast. You'll meet people. You'll get to watch the rugged mountain scenery pass without worrying that you might crash into it. And most stops feature hotels right outside the station. Give rail travel a try.
Return to the prevous page for a rundown of the European rail passes available and the benefits they offer.
